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Nestled above Fiesta Pizza and Valentino African Food Store is a 5,000-square-foot yoga studio that offers more than a good stretch and a reiki massage. On the last Sunday of every month Studio 34 Yoga, Healing and Arts hosts a vegan brunch.
The idea for the brunch was conceived by friends and Studio 34 volunteers Morgan Andrews and Jason Schoen when they needed to raise quick funds in order to attend yoga teacher training. With a combination of Andrew’s love for African-inspired soups and Schoen’s maple-mustard-glazed veggies the brunch became a word-of-mouth success.
“It was requested that we become yoga teachers and teach at Studio 34,” says Andrews. “So we decided as a benefit for yoga school, because yoga school is so expensive, to have a vegan brunch here at the studio. “
After completing their training Andrews and Schoen began to envision the brunch as more of an opportunity for individuals to gather in a safe, comfortable place and meet one another. Once they figured out the logistics of what Schoen calls a “hybrid potluck and brunch” it became clear that the brunch had become a part of Studio 34’s vision to celebrate, connect and create communities. The empty plates were evidence enough that the vegan brunch had established a new community within the studio.
“It seemed like this community could really use some sort of way to come and gather,” Schoen explains. “So we were thinking, ‘what if we had a brunch here? Would people be more likely to come if they didn’t have to make a dish?’” We tried it out and the very first time we ran out of food.”
The brunch attracts vegans, vegetarians and curious carnivores from throughout the Philadelphia area. It has become an anticipated monthly affair for many who enjoy lounging on the studio’s refurbished couches as they bask in the glow of the seemingly endless natural light. Propped on their knees are donated plates and bowls spilling over with waffles, chana mango masala, lemon pepper tempeh and samosa soup spicy enough to warm the soul. However, what is even more warming are the friends and strangers who sit beside them.
“We hardly have to publicize it at all,” Andrews says. “People just know about it and they come.”
The cost of the brunch is a suggested $5-$10 donation or attendees can bring a dish instead of paying. The brunch happens on the last Sunday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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